Introduction
A bugout bag or BOB is a portable kit that typically contains the items one would require to survive for 72 hours when evacuating from a disaster, natural or man-made. The focus is on evacuation, rather than long-term survival, hence the three-day timeframe. A BOB may also be referred to as a Go Bag.
A bugout bag is usually designed to get you through three days; however, some people choose to expand their bags to cover a week or more, depending on the severity of the disaster and their own personal circumstances. No matter how long you plan to be away, your bugout bag should include items that will address your basic needs of food, water, shelter and warmth, as well as tools and supplies for self-defense and navigation.
The Bugout Bag
A bugout bag is a portable kit that contains the items you need to survive for 72 hours when you are evacuated from your home or stranded in a disaster. Your bugout bag should be lightweight and small enough to carry on your back, and it should contain everything you need to keep yourself fed, watered, and sheltered. Here is a list of items that you should include in your bugout bag.
Water
water, you should have at least 1 gallon per person per day on hand, and more is better. stored in airtight, food-grade containers.If you have a well or other source of safely drinkable water, you may not need to stockpile as much as if you were entirely reliant on municipal water supplies.
Water can be used for things beyond just quenching thirst — it’s also important for hygiene. If a disaster hits and there’s no running water, you’ll still need to be able to wash your hands and face (to prevent the spread of disease) and your body (to prevent infection). mission-critical items like cooking and cleaning.
In an urban environment, it’s easy to take running water for granted — but if a disaster strikes and the power is out (or the municipal water system is compromised), you may find yourself without this vital resource.
Food
One of the basic needs we have is food. Food provides us with the energy and nutrients we need to function. When it comes to bugging out, you need to make sure you have enough food to last you until you can find more or make it back home.
There are a few different ways to carry food with you when you bug out. The first is by carrying non-perishable food items with you. These are items that do not need to be cooked and can be eaten as is. This includes items like granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and jerky. It is important to have a variety of these items so that you do not get bored with your food choices.
Another way to carry food with you is by packing canned goods. Canned goods can be a bit heavier than other options, but they will last longer and provide more calories percan. When packing canned goods, be sure to include a manual can opener as well!
Lastly, another option for carrying food is by dehydrating your own meals ahead of time. This requires some extra work upfront, but it will lighten your load and allow you to carry more food with you. Dehydrated meals can include things like stews, chili, pasta dishes, and rice dishes. These can be made ahead of time and then dehydrated so that they take up less space and weight in your bag.
No matter which method you choose for carrying food, be sure to pack enough for yourself and any others who are bugging out with you!
Clothing
Clothing is one of the most important parts of your bugout bag. You need to be able to keep yourself warm and dry in all kinds of weather, and you need to be able to move quickly and easily. Here are some tips on what to pack:
-Pack layers. You can always take off a layer if you get too warm, but you can’t put on a layer if you don’t have one.
-Pack light colors. Dark colors absorb heat, which can be a problem in hot weather.
-Bring a change of clothes. If your clothes get wet, you’ll want to be able to change into dry clothes as soon as possible.
-Don’t forget socks and underwear! These items are easy to forget, but they’re essential for Comfort and hygiene.
Shelter
A bug-out bag or BOB is a portable kit that contains the items one would require to survive for seventy-two hours when evacuating from a disaster, typically a natural disaster or civil unrest. The focus is on evacuation, rather than long-term survival, distinguishing the bug-out bag from a survival kit, a boating or aviation emergency kit, or a first aid kit. The kits are also sometimes colloquially known as “72-hour kits”, “go bags”, “good to go bags”, “get out of Dodge” (GOPOD) bags, “INCH” bags (I’m Never Coming Home)[1] or “THREATCON Delta” (as in Threat Condition Delta) kits.[2][3][4]
The American Red Cross recommends each household have at least one pre-assembled bug-out bag readily available in case of an emergency evacuation.[5][6] In 2012, the British government advised citizens to have supplies for seven days stored in suitably durable containers should an emergency happen.[7] Another study estimates that most people would need to survive on their own for up to three days if their local infrastructure was collapsing due to an event like an earthquake or severe weather event.[8]
A bug out bag typically weighs between fifteen and thirty pounds and is designed so it can be easily carried for long distances. contents of the bag can be customized for specific environments and intended uses. Many options are available commercially; however, individuals often tailor their bags to their own particular requirements and choose items based on convenience and availability rather than price.
The American Red Cross lists the following as basic components of a bug out bag:[5][9]
- Water – at least 1 gallon (3.8 L) per person, per day; include water purification tablets
- Food – nonperishable; three-day supply per person should include canned foods high in calories and protein as well as foods that do not require cooking
- Can opener
- Battery powered or hand crank radio
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit – including supplies for treating blisters and splinters, insect bites and stings and minor wounds
- Medications – prescription medications as well as any over the counter drugs you take regularly should be included. Don’t forget extra doses if you wear contacts or glasses
- Multi-purpose tool – with knife blade, scissors, can opener and more
- Sanitation supplies – wipes, hand sanitizer gel and toilet paper
- Maps – of your local area as well as any areas you may have to detour through
- Cell phone with charger
First Aid
A first-aid kit is a collection of supplies and equipment for use in giving first aid, and can be put together for the home, workplace or vehicles. First-aid kits contain many items, including bandages, gauze pads, scissors, tweezers, adhesive tape, soap, antiseptic wipes, cold packs, gloves and more.
Tools
Tools are one of the most important things to have in your bugout bag. This is because they can help you with a variety of tasks, from opening a can of food to starting a fire. Here are some essential tools that you should consider packing in your bag:
-A knife: A knife is perhaps the most versatile tool that you can have in your bag. It can be used for everything from self-defense to preparing food. Be sure to choose a knife that is comfortable for you to carry and use.
-A multi-tool: A multi-tool is a great way to have a lot of functionality in a small package. These tools usually include a knife, pliers, and scissors, among other things. Choose one that has the features that you think you’ll need the most.
-A flashlight: A flashlight is an essential tool for nighttime navigation or for signaling for help. Be sure to choose one that is bright and has long battery life.
-A fire starter: A fire starter can be used to start a fire for warmth or cooking. Choose one that is easy to use and that will work in all weather conditions.
Fire
Your ability to light a fire is crucial in a survival situation. It can provide warmth, help you signal for rescue, purify water, and cook food. The most important item in your fire-starting kit is a good quality lighter. You should also have matches in a waterproof container as well as tinder that can help you get your fire going.
Navigation
A good navigation setup is key for any successful bug out bag. You need to be able to find your way without relying on electronic devices, which may not work in a grid-down situation.
There are several basic types of navigation tools you can use, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Compass: A compass is a must-have for any bug out bag. It is relatively inexpensive and can be used to find your way even if you are lost in the wilderness. However, a compass is only as accurate as the user, and it can be difficult to use if you don’t know how.
GPS: A GPS unit can be a useful navigation tool, especially if you are familiar with how to use it. However, GPS units require batteries, which may not be available in a grid-down situation. They also rely on satellites, which could be knocked out by an EMP or other type of disaster.
Map: A map is a essential tool for any bug out bag. It can be used to plan your route and find your way even if you are lost. however, maps can be damaged or lost, so it’s important to have more than one copy.
Hygiene
An essential element of any bugout bag is hygiene. When you are trying to survive, the last thing you want is to get sick. To maintain your health, pack items like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. If you wear contact lenses, don’t forget to pack extra solutions and supplies. If you are on medication, pack enough for at least a week. For feminine hygiene, pack pads or tampons. It is also a good idea to pack baby wipes or moist towelettes for general cleaning.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the contents of a 72-hour bugout bag will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. However, there are certain items that should be included in every bag, such as food, water, shelter, clothing, and first aid supplies. You should also consider including items like a flashlight, a radio, and a map, as well as any other items that you think you might need in an emergency situation.